Communication breakdown? – chemical dynamics in 2d materials’ interfaces for efficient and sustained neuromorphic function

The purpose of the research project I propose is to accelerate development of memristors by materials engineering, using two-dimensional materials as building blocks. These devices mimic the function of neural synapses, hence the neuromorphic moniker. Memristors can be used to do energy-efficient computing based on neural networks.

I will study emergent properties of material combinations in memristors made from transition metal sulfides viz. stability, information retainment, reproducibility, and longevity.

One goal is to understand their functionality by understanding the interplay between bias voltage, chemical and physical structure, and electronic structure.

The study will use hard X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (HAXPES) to track chemical shifts in devices while they are running.

The project´s ultimate goal is to explore network properties of memristors: cross-talk/interdiffusion between devices.

I will lead this project within the framework of a Ph.D.-student (4-years) and the two participating researchers will co-supervise.

I will manage the project and also lead the material analysis part, co-applicants provide expertise in synthesis and device physics respectively.

The ultimate goal is to develop sustainable efficient neuromorphic devices manufactured using ethical and recyclable materials.

Knowledge gained here will be of interest to researchers in academia and industry and will guide material choices and analysis methods to accelerate development in the field.